CJI Surya Kant Says ‘Don’t Have Time to Watch Videos’ Remark Was Misquoted
Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant on Friday clarified that his remarks on videos related to the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) protests had been misrepresented, stressing that the Supreme Court remains accessible to every citizen and does not refuse to hear any matter.
Speaking on the sidelines of the UNCITRAL conference, the CJI said media reports had taken his earlier comments out of context.
“I have been misquoted in the media,” the Chief Justice said.
Reiterating the Supreme Court’s commitment to hearing all legitimate cases, he added, “The Supreme Court is open to all persons. We are open 24/7. The Supreme Court never refuses to hear any issue.”
He noted that petitions related to the ongoing student protests, which were mentioned before the court on Friday, have already been scheduled for hearing on Monday.
Row Over Earlier Remarks
The clarification comes after remarks made by the CJI on Wednesday during a hearing on a plea seeking urgent intervention against the alleged police crackdown on student protesters.
When the petitioner’s counsel referred to videos purportedly showing police action, the CJI responded, “We are not interested in videos; we don’t have time to watch.”
The bench also declined an immediate hearing, observing that the matter could not be listed solely because a letter had been sent to the court.
‘Court Is Open, But Procedure Must Be Followed’
Clarifying his position, the CJI said the Supreme Court remains open to everyone but judicial procedures cannot be bypassed.
“If you send a letter and say you must hear me, that cannot happen,” he said, emphasizing that cases are heard in accordance with established legal procedures.
When asked about claims by some protesters that the formation of the CJP was linked to his earlier remarks, the Chief Justice declined to comment, saying only, “No comments.”
CJP Continues Protest
The clarification comes as the Cockroach Janta Party continues its nationwide agitation over the NEET-UG paper leak, demanding the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and wider reforms in the examination system.
Separately, the CJI highlighted India’s growing role in international judicial cooperation, saying such engagements help showcase the country’s legal system, technological progress and institutional development on the global stage.
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